But how exactly is the target audience who need to see this message going to receive it? I would hazard a guess that only the severely poor in India are likely engaging in this action, and one wonders if they have access to even the basic technology that communicates this message, or if they even have an informed understanding of hygiene. I can't imagine this sort of person much caring that a more prosperous person as depicted in the animation might step in or be offended by their public leavings. Or is this habit rampant even among more educated social classes? Because, aside from punks, drunks and frat boys who might think it funny, I can't imagine anyone with even a rudimentary education not understanding that human waste is a serious public health hazard.

But then again, there are idjiits in America who leave used diapers sitting in public parking lots, so who knows.

But then again, there are idjiits in America who leave used diapers sitting in public parking lots, so who knows.

Good point, Parzival. And don't forget those other "idjits" that leave other forms of human waste behind buildings, in parking lots, etc. "Out of sight, out of mind", you know.

As "blunt" as the message and the messenger is, I think it's a good call, although you and other observers are correct in that the poorest of the poor more than likely won't see this ad campaign, let alone practice what it's preaching. Still, India is at a precipice, between its past reputation as a "Third world country" and its potential future as an advanced and highly-industrialized democracy. Certainly, such a country deserves the best education about the basics of personal hygiene.

although you and other observers are correct in that the poorest of the poor more than likely won't see this ad campaign

They make it to the movies, which are cheap enough in this part of the world. I guess UNICEF will run some commercials with "Mr Poo" before films. It would be enough that some cheeky youngsters see the animation and make a mockery of public poopers.

UNICEF successfully ran a campaign here in Bangladesh where they got children to blow a whistle and attract attention to people defecating in the ponds people use for washing, drawing drinking water, etc.